Project Goldie: Fab Fours Game Changing 2017 Ford F-250
South Carolina-based Fab Fours is known for building high-quality bumpers and accessories for late-model trucks and Jeeps. The company has also made a name for itself by pushing the envelope when it comes to innovative new products. For the 2017 SEMA Show, Fab Fours is stepping outside the box once again with its 2017 Ford Super Duty project dubbed "Goldie." Taking cues from the low center-of-gravity build philosophy of the Jeep world, the F-250 is fit with a set of 40x15.50R24 Nitto Trail Grapplers with only a leveling kit!
This was made possible by Fab Fours new Open Fender System, which modifies the truck's existing wheelwells to allow for a large set of treads. Similar to the off-road build philosophy of low and stable, keeping your tow rig with little-to-no lift is also a recipe for success. Since the suspension geometry remains as the factory intended, you're not jeopardizing performance or ride quality. Keeping it low also means the truck is easier to work out of, which is incredibly important in the '¾- and 1-ton market.
Along with new fender system is Fab Fours Truck ViCowl and Truck Grumper. While both the ViCowl and Grumper have been in the Jeep market for a year, this is a first for the fullsize truck realm. At the end of the day, we love seeing companies generate new products and concepts. While your diesel hauler might not need a 40-inch-tall tire, the fact that you can slide on a set with something as simple as a leveling kit is pretty incredible. Put it all together, and you have the makings for unique and low-slung tow rig.
The Open Fender System is comprised primarily of 11-gauge steel, with a 12-gauge steel inner fender. Since cutting is required, the kit includes a 16-gauge cab closeout plate along with closed-cell foam, which can be sanded and painted. The front headlight support is replaced by a 3/16-inch steel bracket. The F-250 as shown is running 40x15.50R24 Nitto Trail Grappler with a 2-inch leveling kit.
Fab Fours is well known for its Jeep JK grille/bumper combo, which it calls the Grumper. Now, it has a full production Grumper for trucks. The lower bumper sections are built from 3/16-inch steel, while the grille portion of the Grumper is built from 11-guage steel. It's designed to fit up to a 12,000 pound winch and has inserts that can be customized. The Truck Grumper also works with the intergraded adaptive cruise control sensor.
Another industry exclusive part is the ViCowl. This was originally shown as a prototype part at the 2016 SEMA Show and eventually rolled into production for the 2007 to 2017 Jeep Wrangler JK. Sadly, the truck version was put on the back burner. But, there's good news! The ViCowl is finally offered for the 2017 Ford Super Duty, Ram 2500, and Chevy 2500, with more applications slated. The windshield guard is comprised of 11-gauge steel and can be had with an optional 20-inch LED lightbar or four LED light pods. All ViCowls will ship with a matte black two-stage powdercoat finish.
Of course, Fab Fours has equipped the truck with other production bits such as its Headache Rack, side steps, and rear bumper. We're digging the color-matched upgrades as it takes an assortment of bold upgrades and blends them into the truck for an extremely refined finished look.
